Proponents of the measure, Sensible Fayetteville, gathered nearly 5,000 signatures from registered voters to place the proposal on the November ballot.

The measure would direct law enforcement to make activities related to the investigation and prosecution of adults who possess up to one ounce of cannabis their lowest priority. Local voters approved a similar 'deprioritization' measure in Eureka Springs, Arkansas in 2006.

Under state law, marijuana possession is a misdemeanor offense punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.

If enacted, the ordinance would also require the city clerk to submit a letter to state and federal legislators urging them to "take immediate steps to enact similar ['deprioritization'] laws."

Voters have enacted similar initiatives in Seattle, Washington; Oakland, California; Columbia, Missouri; and Denver, Colorado.

Sensible Fayetteville is a coalition of statewide organizations, including the University of Arkansas chapter of NORML and the Alliance for Drug Reform Policy in Arkansas.